I was sent an email asking if I wanted to be part of the Coffee-Mate Brew Crew. What is the Brew Crew? Well, it is a group of individuals that spread the word about Coffee-Mate, and share their thoughts about it. A month, or two after joining the Brew Crew I received an email, and a phone call from the Brew-Crew community leader Rachel asking if I would like to attend a function at the Grand Hyatt in New York. I haven’t been out to many “Formal” things, but I said sure. Coffee-Mate had donated $150,000 to Dress For Success, and had spots at their table for 8 people. They did this to show their appreciation to members in helping with the Make Every Cup Count Campaign. I thought to myself how lucky am I. I was told it would be a Awards dinner for the Dress For Success organization. What is Dress For Success? Dress For Success is an organization that helps women out that need that boost to help get them back into the workforce. They have a support group, and more. Visit their site for more information, or to help out with a donation. From my understanding Dress For Success raised @ $1 million dollars in funds through the sale of tickets.
The Brew Crew sent a car service to pick us up, and take us to the function. When we arrived we were immediately checked in, and given our silent auction books. We were then directed to the foyer area where a cocktail hour was already going on. We were treated to Hors D’oeuvres made by Chef Elise Wiggins from Panzano Restaurant in Denver made Triple M Lamb Polpete, and a Grapefruit Spoon. A Live Auction was held prior to any dining. There were 2 packages available. Both were successful in raising over $15,000 for the Dress For Success organization. We had overheard that even Tommy Hilfiger was in attendance.
The First Course of dinner came made by Chef Jen Biesty from Scala’s Bistro in San Francisco. We were served a salad with olive oil poached prawn. There was a wine pairing by Diageo and Emily Wines. There were several success stories from Dress For Success brought on stage, and one of them was asked to share her story of success. This was a very touching story. The Second Course of dinner came made by Chef Keira Moritz from Pacci Ristorante in Atlanta. She made a Filet with truffle mushroom bread pudding. There was again a wine pairing by Diageo and Emily Wines. During diner a selection from Love, Loss and What I wore by Nora and Delia Ephron was read. There was a silent auction of a lot of different items that were donated by many different sponsors. The Third Course of dinner was presented by Chef Elise Wiggins of Panzano Restaurant in Denver once again. She had prepared a Lavender Infused chocolate Pate with a raspberry sauce.
Being we had a babysitter at home we couldn’t stay much longer and unfortunately missed the Toast To Our Mothers. I was a bit sad that I didn’t get to stay for everything, but am happy that I got to experience this at all. I would like to thank Coffee-Mate / Brew Crew for the opportunity to meet other Brew Crew members, and share in this lovely event. Hubby and I had a great time, and enjoyed everything.
Tags: Brew Crew, Coffee-Mate, dinner, Dress For Success, fundraiser, Grand Hyatt, New York
April 24th, 2010 at 9:47 am
I remember a dinner at The top of the World–it’s all a matter of taste, presentment, and portions.